# fig-leaf

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fig-leaf
Updated: 2026-07-29

## Definition

A small or flimsy thing used to hide something embarrassing or shameful.

For teachers: A token or inadequate covering for something embarrassing, improper, or shameful; often a thin pretext that barely conceals the truth.

## Examples

- The apology was just a fig leaf for doing nothing.
- The new policy was a fig leaf, dressing up the layoffs in the softer language of restructuring.
- The committee's supposedly independent review served as a fig leaf, lending the appearance of scrutiny to a decision that had already been made.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.